But Mr Bridges wasn't alone in his questionable choice of words. Former party president Michelle Boag described Mr Ross as "irrational", and others in the party were quick to insult their colleague recovering from a breakdown.

"We've got an MP that's going rogue," said Louise Upston.

Mark Mitchell called him "disloyal" while Judith Collins went a step further and said he was "delusional".

The war of poorly chosen words has mental health experts calling out the party's politicians.

"I don't think it's acceptable to use shaming words around mental distress and mental health issues," said Mr Robinson. "We're looking to our political leaders to set an example."

"I was deeply hurt," Mr Ross said of Mr Bridges' initial description. "No one should have their boss tell the nation that their mental health and their medical needs are embarrassing."

The Mental Health Foundation says politicians talk a big game when it comes to mental health, but they could play it a lot better.